IPCC examines police contact prior to death of Dalian Atkinson in Telford

A team of investigators from the IPCC have begun a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the death of Dalian Atkinson, 48, in Telford.

West Mercia Police were called to a property in Meadow Close, Trench, at around 1.30am on Monday. Two police officers initially attended the address and whilst in contact with Mr Atkinson outside the property one of the officers discharged a Taser. Further police officers then arrived at the scene. Mr Atkinson became unwell and an ambulance was called.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: "We were called by West Mercia Police to an address in Meadow Close in the Trench area of Telford at about 1.45am.

"An ambulance was dispatched and upon arrival found a man who had been Tasered.

"As he was being conveyed to Princess Royal Hospital, his condition deteriorated and he went into cardiac arrest.

"Despite the efforts of the crew and hospital staff, it was not possible to save him and he was confirmed dead at hospital, shortly after arrival."

Following the death of Mr Atkinson, West Mercia Police referred the incident to the IPCC and the IPCC sent investigators to the scene and to oversee police post incident procedures.

IPCC investigators have been conducting house to house enquiries in the immediate area and gathering available information. Police logs and radio transmissions are being obtained. The police officers involved and independent witnesses will be interviewed by IPCC investigators. Initial data from the Taser has been downloaded and it is being sent for further testing.

None of the relevant officers were wearing body worn video cameras.

IPCC deputy chair Rachel Cerfontyne said: “I would like to assure people that we have begun a full and thorough investigation into police contact with Dalian Atkinson prior to his death, including the level and type of force used.

"Our investigation team have been securing and preserving relevant evidence, and identifying witnesses. Investigators have met Mr Atkinson’s immediate family to explain our role and we have appointed a family liaison manager to keep them updated.

"My thoughts are with Mr Atkinson’s family and friends, and all those affected, at this difficult time.”

A post mortem is due to be carried out later this week.